Backward compatible lock system, key blanks and keys therefor

ABSTRACT

A cylinder and key combination including a pin operated cylinder including a cylinder body, a plug rotatable within the cylinder body and defining a keyway and first pin assemblies and at least one second pin assembly communicating with the keyway and being selectably positionable by key cuts on a key inserted into the keyway for positioning the pin assemblies with respect to a shear line between the cylinder body and the plug to permit rotation of the plug with respect to the cylinder body and a key, including a shank defining at least one planar surface configured to define a longitudinally extending key-cut region thereon, the longitudinally extending region having formed thereon a plurality of first key cuts configured to position a plurality of first pins at a desired shear line position and having pre-formed thereon at least one second key cut configured to position a corresponding at least one second pin assembly at a desired shear line position.

This application is the U.S. national phase of international applicationPCT/IL03/00992 filed 24 Nov. 2003 which designated the U.S. and claimsbenefit of IL 153068, dated 24 Nov. 2002, respectively, the entirecontent of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to key-operated locks as well as keys andkey blanks useful therein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A great variety of key-operated locks are known in the patentliterature. The following U.S. patents of the present assignee arebelieved to be representative of the current state of the art:

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,839,308; 5,784,910 and 5,520,035.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention seeks to provide an improved key-operated lock aswell as a key and a key blank useful therein.

There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention a key blank including a shank defining at least oneplanar surface configured to define a longitudinally extending key-cutregion thereon, the longitudinally extending region being arranged toaccommodate a plurality of first key cuts and having pre-formed thereonat least one second key cut configured to position a corresponding pinat a desired shear line position.

Preferably, the at least one second key cut defines at least a firstrecess portion along a surface of rotation and at least a second recessportion which is cut deeper than the surface of rotation. Additionally,the first recess portion corresponds to the overall configuration of theplurality of first key cuts.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention a key including a shank defining at least one planarsurface configured to define a longitudinally extending key-cut regionthereon, the longitudinally extending region having formed thereon aplurality of first key cuts configured to position a plurality of firstpins at a desired shear line position and having pre-formed thereon atleast one second key cut configured to position a corresponding at leastone second pin at a desired shear line position.

Preferably, the at least one second key cut defines at least a firstrecess portion along a surface of rotation and at least a second recessportion which is cut deeper than the surface of rotation. Additionally,the first recess portion corresponds to the overall configuration of theplurality of first key cuts.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention a cylinder and key combination including a pinoperated cylinder including a cylinder body, a plug rotatable within thecylinder body and defining a keyway and first pin assemblies and atleast one second pin assembly communicating with the keyway and beingselectably positionable by key cuts on a key inserted into the keywayfor positioning the pin assemblies with respect to a shear line betweenthe cylinder body and the plug to permit rotation of the plug withrespect to the cylinder body and a key, including a shank defining atleast one planar surface configured to define a longitudinally extendingkey-cut region thereon, the longitudinally extending region havingformed thereon a plurality of first key cuts configured to position aplurality of first pins at a desired shear line position and havingpre-formed thereon at least one second key cut configured to position acorresponding at least one second pin assembly at a desired shear lineposition.

Preferably, the plurality of first key cuts define first recessescorresponding in configuration to the first pin assemblies and the atleast one second key cut defines at least a first recess portioncorresponding to the first recesses and being configured to position thefirst pin assemblies at desired shear line positions and at least asecond recess portion which is cut deeper than the first recess portionand being configured to position the at least one second pin assembly ata desired shear line position. Additionally, the plurality of first keycuts is incapable of positioning a second pin assembly at a desiredshear line position. Alternatively or additionally, the at least onesecond key cut is capable of positioning a second pin assembly at adesired shear line position and is capable of positioning a first pinassembly at a desired shear line position. Alternatively oradditionally, the second pin assembly includes multi-part pins.

There is also provided in accordance with another preferred embodimentof the present invention a key blank including a shank arranged to haveformed thereon a plurality of conventional key cuts and having formedthereon at least one unconventional, backward compatible, key cutconfigured to position a corresponding unconventional pin at a desiredshear line position and to position a corresponding conventional pin ata desired shear line position.

Preferably, the at least one unconventional key cut does not define asurface of rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the plurality ofconventional key cuts defines a surface of rotation and the at least oneunconventional key cut defines a portion of a surface of rotationwherein remaining portions of the surface of rotation are cut further todefine a deeper recess.

There is also provided in accordance with another preferred embodimentof the present invention a key including a shank having formed thereon aplurality of conventional key cuts and at least one unconventional,backward compatible, key cut configured to position a correspondingunconventional pin at a desired shear line position and to position acorresponding conventional pin at a desired shear line position.

Preferably, the at least one unconventional key cut does not define asurface of rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the plurality ofconventional key cuts defines a surface of rotation and the at least oneunconventional key cut defines a portion of a surface of rotationwherein remaining portions of the surface of rotation are cut further todefine a deeper recess.

There is further provided in accordance with yet another preferredembodiment of the present invention a key blank including a shankdefining at least one planar surface configured to define alongitudinally extending key-cut region thereon, the longitudinallyextending region being arranged to accommodate a plurality of first keycuts and having pre-formed thereon at least one second key cutconfigured to position a corresponding at least one second pin assemblyat a desired shear line position, wherein the plurality of first keycuts define first recesses corresponding in configuration to a pluralityof first pin assemblies and the at least one second key cut defines atleast a first recess portion corresponding to the first recesses andbeing configured to position the plurality of first pin assemblies atdesired shear line positions and at least a second recess portion whichis cut deeper than the first recess portion and being configured toposition the at least one second pin assembly at a desired shear lineposition.

Preferably, the plurality of first key cuts is incapable of positioningsaid at least one second pin assembly at a desired shear line position.Additionally, or alternatively, the at least one second key cut iscapable of positioning said at least one second pin assembly at adesired shear line position and is capable of positioning a first pinassembly at a desired shear line position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will be understood and appreciated more fully fromthe following detailed description, taken in conjunction with thedrawings in which:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are sectional illustrations of a key-operated lockcylinder and key constructed and operative in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the invention, in a locked orientation;

FIGS. 2A & 2B are sectional illustrations of the key-operated lockcylinder and key of FIGS. 1A and 1B in an open orientation;

FIGS. 3A & 3B are sectional illustrations of the key-operated lockcylinder of FIGS. 1A-2B in a locked orientation with a conventional keyinserted therein;

FIGS. 4A & 4B are sectional illustrations of a conventional key-operatedlock cylinder in an open orientation with a key of the type shown inFIGS. 1A-2B inserted therein;

FIGS. 5A-5F are six different illustrations of a cylinder plug pinuseful in the cylinders of FIGS. 1A-3B which cooperates with a key ofthe type shown in FIGS. 1A-2B;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are, respectively, a plan view and sectionalillustration of a key blank constructed and operative in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 7A-7E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B;

FIGS. 8A-8E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.7A-7E;

FIGS. 9A-9E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.7A-7E in operative engagement with the plug pin of FIGS. 5A-5F;

FIGS. 10A-10F are six different illustrations of another embodiment of acylinder plug pin useful in the cylinders of FIGS. 1A-3B;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are, respectively, a plan view and sectionalillustration of a key blank constructed and operative in accordance withanother preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 12A-12E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B;

FIGS. 13A-13E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.12A-12E;

FIGS. 14A-14E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.12A-12E in operative engagement with the plug pin of FIGS. 10A-10F;

FIGS. 15A-15D are, respectively, a plan view and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key blank constructed and operative inaccordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 16A-16G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 15A-15D;

FIGS. 17A-17G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.16A-16G;

FIGS. 18A-18G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.16A-16G in operative engagement with plug pins of the types shown inFIGS. 5A-5F and 10A-10F;

FIGS. 19A-19D are, respectively, a plan view and sectional illustrationsof a key blank constructed and operative in accordance with stillanother preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 20A-20G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 19A-19D;

FIGS. 21A-21G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.20A-20G;

FIGS. 22A-22G are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.20A-20G in operative engagement with plug pins of the types shown inFIGS. 5A-5F and 10A-10F;

FIGS. 23A and 23B are sectional illustrations of a key-operated lockcylinder and key constructed and operative in accordance with anotherpreferred embodiment of the invention, in a locked orientation;

FIGS. 24A & 24B are sectional illustrations of the key-operated lockcylinder and key of FIGS. 23A and 23B in an open orientation;

FIGS. 25A & 25B are sectional illustrations of the key-operated lockcylinder of FIGS. 23A-24B in a locked orientation with a conventionalkey inserted therein;

FIGS. 26A-26F are six different illustrations of part of a multi-partcylinder plug pin useful in the cylinders of FIGS. 23A-25B whichcooperates with a key of the type shown in FIGS. 23A-24B;

FIGS. 27A-27F are six different illustrations of a multipart cylinderplug pin employing parts of the type shown in FIGS. 26A-26F, useful inthe cylinders of FIGS. 23A-25B which cooperates with a key of the typeshown in FIGS. 23A-24B;

FIGS. 28A and 28B are, respectively, a plan view and sectionalillustration of a key blank constructed and operative in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 29A-29E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B;

FIGS. 30A-30E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.29A-29E;

FIGS. 31A-31E are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.29A-29E in operative engagement with the plug pin of FIGS. 27A-27F;

FIGS. 32A-32D are, respectively, a plan view and sectional illustrationsof a key blank constructed and operative in accordance with stillanother preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 33A-33F are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a partiallykey cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS. 32A-32D;

FIGS. 34A-34F are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.33A-33F; and

FIGS. 35A-35F are, respectively, a pictorial illustration, a plan viewillustration and a plurality of sectional illustrations of the keyproduced from the partially key cut key blank of the type shown in FIGS.33A-33F in operative engagement with plug pins of the types shown inFIGS. 27A-27F.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference is now made to FIGS. 1A and 1B, which are sectionalillustrations of a key-operated lock cylinder and key, constructed andoperative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, ina locked orientation. As seen in FIGS. 1A & 1B, the cylinder, heredesignated generally by reference numeral 100, includes a cylinder body102 defining a bore 104. A plug 106 is rotatably disposed within bore104 in cylinder body 102 and defines a keyway 108 and first cylindricalplug pin bores 110 communicating therewith and with corresponding firstcylindrical body pin bores 112 formed in cylinder body 102.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,there is also provided at least one second cylindrical plug pin bore 120communicating with keyway 108 and with at least one corresponding secondcylindrical body pin bore 122 formed in cylinder body 102. Second pinbores 120 and 122 are generally distinguished from first pin bores 110and 112 in that whereas first pin bores 110 and 112 generally have aconventional circular cylindrical configuration, second pin bores 120and 122 typically have a non-circular cylindrical configuration, such asan oval cylindrical configuration in the illustrated embodiment.

First plug pins 130 and first body pins 132 are operatively disposed inrespective first plug pin bores 110 and first body pin bores 112. Secondplug pin 140 and second body pin 142 are operatively disposed inrespective second plug pin bore 120 and second body pin bore 122.Springs 144 are operatively associated with the body pins 132 and 142 ina conventional manner.

Second body pins 142 are generally distinguished from first body pins132 in that whereas first body pins 132 generally have a conventionalcircular cylindrical configuration, second body pins 142 typically havea non-circular cylindrical configuration, such as an oval cylindricalconfiguration in the illustrated embodiment.

Second plug pins 140 are generally distinguished from first plug pins130 in that whereas first plug pins 130 generally have a conventionalcircular cylindrical configuration, second plug pins 140 typically havea non-circular cylindrical configuration, such as an oval cylindricalconfiguration in the illustrated embodiment. Second plug pins 140 arealso generally distinguished from first plug pins 130 in that whereasfirst plug pins 130 generally have a conventional circularly symmetric,conical pin head configuration, second plug pins 140 have anon-circularly symmetric head configuration such as that shown in detailin FIGS. 5A-5F.

The first and second plug pins 130 and 140 communicate with keyway 108and are selectably positionable by key cuts on a key when inserted intothe keyway with respect to a shear line 148 between the cylinder body110 and the plug 106 to permit rotation of the plug 106 with respect tothe cylinder body 100. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the key, here designated byreference numeral 150, is not inserted into the keyway 108 and thus thevarious plug and body pins are not aligned so as to be separated fromeach other along the shear line 148.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A and 2B, which illustrates thekey-operated lock cylinder and key of FIGS. 1A and 1B in an openorientation, where key 150 is fully inserted into the keyway 108.

As seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, key 150 includes a shank 152 defining atleast one planar surface 154 configured to define a longitudinallyextending key-cut region 156 thereon. The longitudinally extendingregion 156 has formed thereon a plurality of conventional, generallyconical first key cuts 158 configured to position the engagement betweenthe first plug pins 130 and the first body pins 132 at the shear line148 and has at least partially pre-formed thereon at least one secondkey cut 160 configured in a non-conical, non-circularly symmetricconfiguration to position corresponding at least one second plug pin 140and at least one second body pin 142 at shear line 148, as shown.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A & 3B, which are sectionalillustrations of the key-operated lock cylinder of FIGS. 1A-2B in alocked orientation with a conventional key 162 inserted therein. It isseen that the conventional key does not include second key cuts and thusdoes not position the engagement of second plug pin 140 and second bodypin 142 at shear line 148, as shown.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A & 4B, which are sectionalillustrations of a conventional key-operated lock cylinder 170 in anopen orientation with a key 150 of the type shown in FIGS. 1A-2Binserted therein such that a second key cut 160 is engaged by aconventional first plug pin. It is a particular feature of the presentinvention that the configuration of the second key cut 160 is such as toaccommodate first plug pins and position the engagement of the firstplug pin 130 and the first body pin 132 along the shear line 148. Thusit may be appreciated that keys bearing second key cuts are useful withconventional cylinders which do not include second pins.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-5F, which are six differentillustrations of a preferred second plug pin 175 useful in the cylindersof FIGS. 1A-3B which cooperates with a key of the type shown in FIGS.1A-2B. FIG. 5A is a pictorial illustration; FIG. 5B is a side viewillustration, FIG. 5C is a sectional illustration taken along linesVC-VC in FIG. 5B; FIG. 5D is a side view illustration, FIG. 5E is asectional illustration taken along lines VE-VE in FIG. 5D and FIG. 5F isa top view.

FIGS. 5A-5F illustrate a plug pin having a generally oval cylindricalconfiguration defining a major axis 180 and a minor axis 182, it beingappreciated that any overall configuration which does not allow rotationof the plug pin in the plug pin bore may alternatively be employed. Thehead of the plug pin defines an elongate generally rectangularprotrusion 184 which extends along the minor axis 182 and an inclinedplane 186 extending downwardly from each side of protrusion 184.Extending downwardly from each end of protrusion 184 there is a firstconical surface 188 which joins a second conical surface 190. First andsecond interrupted elongate protrusions 192 and 194 extend on both sidesof the respective second conical surfaces 190.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A and 6B, which are, respectively, aplan view and sectional illustration of a key blank constructed andoperative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. As seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the key blank comprises a headportion 200 and a shank portion 202, preferably in the form of a flatblade having first and second oppositely-facing planar surfaces 204 and206. Formed on each of planar surfaces 204 and 206 are a pair of guidegrooves, respectively designated by reference numerals 208 & 210 and 212and 214, which define a key-cut region on each surface. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention a pair of additionalgrooves are formed at at least one key cut location in the key-cutregion of each of planar surfaces 204 and 206. These additional groovesare designated by reference numerals 218 & 220 and 222 and 224respectively.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 218-224 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B may haveadditional grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 6A and6B, having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7A-7E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. The key blank of FIGS. 7A-7E is identical tothat of FIGS. 6A and 6B and is formed with an additional key cut, havinga generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of a firstkey cut, over each pair of additional grooves, thus fully defining asecond key cut on each of planar surfaces 204 and 206. The second keycut, which is a combination of the additional grooves and the additionaltruncated conical key cut, is identified by reference numeral 234 onplanar surface 204 and by reference numeral 236 on planar surface 206.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 7A-7E may have secondkey cuts located selectably at different key cut locations, thereby todefine second key cut locations. It is appreciated that by selectivedistribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 7A-7E, havinggiven second key cut locations, cutting of keys having correspondingsecond key cut locations may be correspondingly restricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 8A-8E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 7A-7E. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 8A-8E and the key blank of FIGS. 7A-7E is in the addition offirst key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region on eachof planar surfaces 204 and 206. The additional key cuts are indicatedgenerally by reference numeral 244 on planar surface 204 and are notshown on planar surface 206.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 9A-9E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 7A-7E in operative engagement withthe plug pin of FIGS. 5A-5F. FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate engagement of plugpin 175 (FIGS. 5A-5E) with second key cut 234. It is seen that due tothe provision of additional grooves 218 and 220 (FIGS. 6A and 6B) in thesecond key cut 234, which accommodate elongate protrusions 192 and 194(FIGS. 5A-5E), the pin 175 is enabled to seat fully in the second keycut. It is appreciated that pin 175 could not seat fully in a first keycut. Accordingly keys which do not include suitably placed second keycuts cannot operate the non-conventional cylinders of the type describedherein.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 10A-10F, which are six differentillustrations of another preferred second plug pin 275, useful in thecylinders of FIGS. 1A-3B, which cooperates with a key of the type shownin FIGS. 11A and 11B. FIG. 10A is a pictorial illustration; FIG. 10B isa side view illustration, FIG. 10C is a sectional illustration takenalong lines XC-XC in FIG. 10B; FIG. 10D is a side view illustration,FIG. 10E is a sectional illustration taken along lines XE-XE in FIG. 10Dand FIG. 10F is a top view.

FIGS. 10A-10F illustrate a plug pin 275 having a generally ovalcylindrical configuration defining a major axis 280 and a minor axis282, it being appreciated that any overall configuration which does notallow rotation of the plug pin in the plug pin bore may alternatively beemployed. The head of the plug pin is partially cut away, as indicatedat reference numeral 283 and defines an elongate generally rectangularprotrusion 284 which extends along the minor axis 282 and an inclinedplane 286 extending downwardly from each side of protrusion 284;Extending downwardly from one end of protrusion 284 there is a firstconical surface 288 which joins a second conical surface 290. Aninterrupted elongate protrusion 292 extends on both sides of the secondconical surface 290.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A and 11B, which are, respectively, aplan view and sectional illustration of a key blank constructed andoperative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. As seen in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the key blank comprises a headportion 300 and a shank portion 302, preferably in the form of a flatblade having first and second oppositely-facing planar surfaces 304 and306. Formed on each of planar surfaces 304 and 306 are a pair of guidegrooves, respectively designated by reference numerals 308 & 310 and 312and 314, which define a key-cut region on each surface. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention an additional groove isformed at at least one key cut location in the key-cut region of each ofplanar surfaces 304 and 306. The additional grooves are designated byreference numerals 318 and 322 respectively.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 318 and 322 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B may haveadditional grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 11A and11B, having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 12A-12E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. The key blank of FIGS. 12A-12E is identicalto that of FIGS. 11A and 11B and is formed with an additional key cut,having a generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of afirst key cut, over each additional groove, thus fully defining a secondkey cut on each of planar surfaces 304 and 306. The second key cut,which is a combination of the additional groove and the additionaltruncated conical key cut, is identified by reference numeral 334 onplanar surface 304 and by reference numeral 336 on planar surface 306.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 12A-12E may havesecond key cuts located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 12A-12E,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 13A-13E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 12A-12E. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 13A-13E and the key blank of FIGS. 12A-12E is in the additionof first key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region oneach of planar surfaces 304 and 306. The additional key cuts areindicated generally by reference numeral 344 on planar surface 304 andare not shown on planar surface 306.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 14A-14E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 12A-12E in operative engagementwith the plug pin of FIGS. 10A-10F. FIGS. 14A-14E illustrate engagementof plug pin 275 (FIGS. 10A-10E) with second key cut 334. It is seen thatdue to the provision of additional groove 318 (FIGS. 11A and 11B) in thesecond key cut 334, the pin 275 is enabled to seat fully in the secondkey cut. It is appreciated that pin 275 could not seat fully in a firstkey cut. Accordingly keys which do not include suitably placed secondkey cuts cannot operate the non-conventional cylinders of the typedescribed herein.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 15A-15D, which are, respectively, a planview and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a key blankconstructed and operative in accordance with yet another preferredembodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIGS. 15A-15D, the keyblank comprises a head portion 400 and a shank portion 402, preferablyin the form of a flat blade having first and second oppositely-facingplanar surfaces 404 and 406. Formed on each of planar surfaces 404 and406 are a pair of guide grooves, respectively designated by referencenumerals 408 & 410 and 412 and 414, which define a key-cut region oneach surface. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the inventiona plurality of pairs of additional grooves are formed at a plurality ofkey cut locations in the key-cut region of each of planar surfaces 404and 406. These additional grooves are designated by reference numerals417, 418, 419 & 420 and 421, 422, 423 and 424 respectively.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 417-424 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 15A-15D may have oneor more grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 15A-15D,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 16A-16G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIGS. 15A-15D. The key blank of FIGS. 16A-16G is identical tothat of FIGS. 15A-15D and is formed with additional key cuts, eachhaving a generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of afirst key cut, over each pair of additional grooves, thus fully definingsecond key cuts on each of planar surfaces 404 and 406. The second keycuts, which are each a combination of a pair of additional grooves andthe additional truncated conical key cut, are identified by referencenumeral 434 on planar surface 404 and by reference numeral 435 on planarsurface 406. Additional second key cuts which are each a combination ofan additional groove and an additional truncated conical key cut areidentified by reference numerals 436 & 437 on planar surface 404 and byreference numerals 438 & 439 on planar surface 406.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 16A-16G may havesecond key cuts located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 16A-16G,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 17A-17G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 16A-16G. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 17A-17G and the key blank of FIGS. 16A-16G is in the additionof first key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region oneach of planar surfaces 404 and 406. The additional key cuts areindicated generally by reference numeral 444 on planar surface 404 andare not shown on planar surface 406.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 18A-18G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 16A-16G in operative engagementwith plug pins of FIGS. 5A-5F and of FIGS. 10A-10F. FIGS. 18A-18Gillustrate engagement of a plug pin 175 (FIGS. 5A-5E) with second keycut 434 and engagement of plug pins 275 (FIGS. 10A-10F) with second keycuts 436 & 437. It is seen that due to the provision of additionalgrooves in the second key cuts, which accommodate elongate protrusions192 and 194 (FIGS. 5A-5E) and elongate protrusion 292 (FIGS. 10A-10E),the pins 175 and 275 are enabled to seat fully in the second key cuts.It is appreciated that pins 175 and 275 could not seat fully in a firstkey cut. Accordingly keys which do not include suitably placed secondkey cuts cannot operate the non-conventional cylinders of the typedescribed herein.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 19A-19D, which are, respectively, a planview and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a key blankconstructed and operative in accordance with still another preferredembodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIGS. 19A-19D, the keyblank comprises a head portion 500 and a shank portion 502, preferablyin the form of a flat blade having first and second oppositely-facingplanar surfaces 504 and 506. Formed on each of planar surfaces 504 and506 are a pair of guide grooves, respectively designated by referencenumerals 508 & 510 and 512 and 514, which define a key-cut region oneach surface. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the inventiona plurality of pairs of additional grooves are formed at a plurality ofkey cut locations in the key-cut region of each of planar surfaces 504and 506. These additional grooves are designated by reference numerals517, 518, 519 & 520 and 521, 522, 523 and 524 respectively and are shownto have differing depths.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 517-524 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 19A-19D may have oneor more grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 19A-19D,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted. The provision of different depths of the grooves provides afacility suitable for use in mastering keys.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 20A-20G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIGS. 19A-19D. The key blank of FIGS. 20A-20G is identical tothat of FIGS. 19A-19D and is formed with additional key cuts, eachhaving a generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of afirst key cut, over each pair of additional grooves, thus fully definingsecond key cuts on each of planar surfaces 504 and 506. The second keycuts, which are each a combination of a pair of additional grooves andthe additional truncated conical key cut, are identified by referencenumeral 534 on planar surface 504 and by reference numeral 535 on planarsurface 506. Additional second key cuts which are each a combination ofan additional groove and an additional truncated conical key cut areidentified by reference numerals 536 & 537 on planar surface 504 and byreference numerals 538 & 539 on planar surface 506.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 20A-20G may havesecond key cuts located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 20A-20G,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted. The provision of different depths of the grooves provides afacility suitable for use in mastering keys.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 21A-21G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 20A-20G. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 21A-21G and the key blank of FIGS. 20A-20G is in the additionof first key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region oneach of planar surfaces 504 and 506. The additional key cuts areindicated generally by reference numeral 544 on planar surface 504 andare not shown on planar surface 506.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 22A-22G, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 20A-20G in operative engagementwith plug pins of FIGS. 5A-5F and of FIGS. 10A-10F. FIGS. 22A-22Gillustrate engagement of a plug pin 175 (FIGS. 5A-5F) with second keycut 534 and engagement of plug pins 275 (FIGS. 10A-10F) with second keycuts 536 & 537. It is seen that due to the provision of additionalgrooves in the second key cuts, which accommodate elongate protrusions192 and 194 (FIGS. 5A-5F) and 292 (FIGS. 10A-10F) the pins 175 and 275are enabled to seat fully in the second key cuts. It is appreciated thatpins 175 and 275 could not seat fully in a first key cut. Accordinglykeys which do not include suitably placed second key cuts cannot operatethe non-conventional cylinders of the type described herein.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 23A and 23B, which are sectionalillustrations of a key-operated lock cylinder and key, constructed andoperative in accordance with another preferred embodiment of theinvention, in a locked orientation. As seen in FIGS. 23A & 23B, thecylinder, here designated generally by reference numeral 600, includes acylinder body 602 defining a bore 604. A plug 606 is rotatably disposedwithin bore 604 in cylinder body 602 and defines a keyway 608 and firstcylindrical plug pin bores 610 communicating therewith and withcorresponding first cylindrical body pin bores 612 formed in cylinderbody 602.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,there is also provided at least one second cylindrical plug pin bore 620communicating with keyway 608 and with at least one corresponding secondcylindrical body pin bore 622 formed in cylinder body 602. Second pinbores 620 and 622 are generally distinguished from first pin bores 610and 612 in that whereas first pin bores 610 and 612 generally have aconventional circular cylindrical configuration, second pin bores 620and 622 typically have a non-circular cylindrical configuration, such asan oval cylindrical configuration in the illustrated embodiment.

First multi-part plug pins 630 and first multi-part body pins 632 areoperatively disposed in respective first plug pin bores 610 and firstbody pin bores 612. Second multi-part plug pin 640 and second multi-partbody pin 642 are operatively disposed in respective second plug pin bore620 and second body pin bore 622. Springs 644 and 645 are operativelyassociated with the multi-part body pins 632 and 642 in a conventionalmanner.

Second multi-part body pins 642 are generally distinguished from firstmulti-part body pins 632 in that whereas first multi-part body pins 632generally have a conventional circular cylindrical configuration, secondmulti-part body pins 642 typically have a non-circular cylindricalconfiguration, such as an oval cylindrical configuration in theillustrated embodiment.

Second multi-part plug pins 640 are generally distinguished from firstmulti-part plug pins 630 in that whereas first multi-part plug pins 630generally have a conventional circular cylindrical configuration, secondmulti-part plug pins 640 typically have a non-circular cylindricalconfiguration, such as an oval cylindrical configuration in theillustrated embodiment. Second multi-part plug pins 640 are alsogenerally distinguished from first multi-part plug pins 630 in thatwhereas first multi-part plug pins 630 generally have a conventionalcircularly symmetric, conical pin head configuration, second multi-partplug pins 640 have a non-circularly symmetric head configuration, suchas that shown in detail in FIGS. 27A-27F.

The first and second multi-part plug pins 630 and 640 communicate withkeyway 608 and are selectably positionable by key cuts on a key wheninserted into the keyway with respect to a shear line 648 between thecylinder body 610 and the plug 606 to permit rotation of the plug 606with respect to the cylinder body 600. In FIGS. 23A and 23B, the key,here designated by reference numeral 650, is not inserted into thekeyway 608 and thus the various multi-part plug and body pins are notaligned so as to be separated from each other along the shear line 648.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 24A and 24B, which illustrates thekey-operated lock cylinder and key of FIGS. 23A and 23B in an openorientation, where key 650 is fully inserted into the keyway 608.

As seen in FIGS. 24A and 24B, key 650 includes a shank 652 defining atleast one planar surface 654 configured to define a longitudinallyextending key-cut region 656 thereon. The longitudinally extendingregion 656 has formed thereon a plurality of conventional, generallyconical first key cuts 658 configured to position the engagement betweenthe first multi-part plug pins 630 and the first multi-part body pins632 at the shear line 648 and has at least partially pre-formed thereonat least one second key cut 660 configured in a non-conical,non-circularly symmetric configuration to position corresponding atleast one second multi-part plug pin 640 and at least one secondmulti-part body pin 642 at shear line 648, as shown.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 25A & 25B, which are sectionalillustrations of the key-operated lock cylinder of FIGS. 23A-23B in alocked orientation with a conventional key 662 inserted therein. It isseen that the conventional key does not include second key cuts and thusdoes not position the engagement of second plug pin 640 and second bodypin 642 at shear line 648, as shown.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 26A-26F, which are six differentillustrations of one part of a preferred second multi-part plug pin 675useful in the cylinders of FIGS. 23A-25B which cooperates with a key ofthe type shown in FIGS. 23A-24B. FIG. 26A is a pictorial illustration;FIG. 26B is a side view illustration. FIG. 26C is a sectionalillustration taken along lines XXVIC-XXVIC in FIG. 26B; FIG. 26D is aside view illustration, FIG. 26E is a sectional illustration taken alonglines XXVIE-XXVIE in FIG. 26D and FIG. 26F is a top view. Reference isalso made to FIGS. 27A-27F, which are six different illustrations of apreferred second multi-part plug pin 675 formed of two parts of the typeshown in FIGS. 26A-26F, which is useful in the cylinders of FIGS.23A-25B and cooperates with a key of the type shown in FIGS. 23A-24B.FIG. 27A is a pictorial illustration; FIG. 27B is a side viewillustration, FIG. 27C is a sectional illustration taken along linesXXVIIC-XXVIIC in FIG. 27B; FIG. 27D is a side view illustration, FIG.27E is a sectional illustration taken along lines XXVIIE-XXVIIE in FIG.27D and FIG. 27F is a top view.

FIGS. 26A-27F illustrate a plug pin formed of two parts, which togetherhave a generally oval cylindrical configuration defining a major axis680 and a minor axis 682, it being appreciated that any overallconfiguration which does not allow rotation of the plug pin in the plugpin bore may alternatively be employed. The head of the plug pin definesa two-part elongate generally rectangular protrusion 684 which extendsalong the minor axis 682 and an inclined plane 686 extending downwardlyfrom each side of protrusion 684. Extending downwardly from each end ofprotrusion 684 there is a first conical surface 688 which joins a secondconical surface 690. First and second interrupted elongate protrusions692 and 694 extend on both sides of the respective second conicalsurfaces 690.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 28A and 28B, which are, respectively, aplan view and sectional illustration of a key blank constructed andoperative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. As seen in FIGS. 28A and 28B, the key blank comprises a headportion 700 and a shank portion 702, preferably in the form of a flatblade having first and second oppositely-facing planar surfaces 704 and706. Formed on each of planar surfaces 704 and 706 are a pair of guidegrooves, respectively designated by reference numerals 708 & 710 and 712and 714, which define a key-cut region on each surface. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention a pair of additionalgrooves are formed at at least one key cut location in the key-cutregion of each of planar surfaces 704 and 706. These additional groovesare designated by reference numerals 718 & 720 and 722 and 724respectively.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 718-724 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove. It is a particular feature of the embodiment of FIGS.23A-35F, that where the parts of the multi-part pins are of differentlengths, as shown in FIGS. 27A-27F, the depths of the additional grooves718-724 must be correspondingly different. It is appreciated thatmulti-part pins of equal length and key blanks with additional groovesof corresponding equal depths may also be provided.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B may haveadditional grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 28A and28B, having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 29A-29E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIGS. 28A and 28B. The key blank of FIGS. 29A-29E is identicalto that of FIGS. 28A and 28B and is formed with an additional key cut,having a generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of afirst key cut, over each pair of additional grooves, thus fully defininga second key cut on each of planar surfaces 704 and 706. The second keycut, which is a combination of the additional grooves and the additionaltruncated conical key cut, is identified by reference numeral 734 onplanar surface 704 and by reference numeral 736 on planar surface 706.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 29A-29E may havesecond key cuts located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 29A-29E,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 30A-30E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 29A-29E. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 30A-30E and the key blank of FIGS. 29A-29E is in the additionof first key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region oneach of planar surfaces 704 and 706. The additional key cuts areindicated generally by reference numeral 744 on planar surface 704 andare not shown on planar surface 706.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 31A-31E, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 29A-29E in operative engagementwith the multi-part plug pin of FIGS. 27A-27F. FIGS. 31A-31E illustrateengagement of multi-part plug pin 675 (FIGS. 27A-27F) with second keycut 734 (FIG. 29E). It is seen that due to the provision of additionalgrooves 718 and 720 (FIGS. 28A and 28B) of suitably different depths inthe second key cut 734 (FIG. 29E), which accommodate elongateprotrusions 692 and 694 (FIGS. 27A-27F) on respective parts of themulti-part pin, the multi-part pin 675 is enabled to seat fully in thesecond key cut. It is appreciated that multi-part pins of equal lengthand key blanks with additional grooves of corresponding equal depths mayalso be provided.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 32A-32D, which are, respectively, a planview and a plurality of sectional illustrations of a key blankconstructed and operative in accordance with still another preferredembodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIGS. 32A-32D, the keyblank comprises a head portion 800 and a shank portion 802, preferablyin the form of a flat blade having first and second oppositely-facingplanar surfaces 804 and 806. Formed on each of planar surfaces 804 and806 are a pair of guide grooves, respectively designated by referencenumerals 808 & 810 and 812 and 814, which define a key-cut region oneach surface. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the inventiona plurality of pairs of additional grooves are formed at a plurality ofkey cut locations in the key-cut region of each of planar surfaces 804and 806. These additional grooves are designated by reference numerals817, 818, 819 & 820 and 821, 822, 823 and 824 respectively and are shownto have differing depths.

It is a particular feature of the present invention that additionalgrooves 817-824 define part of the second key cuts referred tohereinabove and are absent from the first key cuts referred tohereinabove.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 32A-32D may have oneor more grooves located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 32A-32D,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted. The provision of different depths of the grooves provides afacility suitable for use in mastering keys.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 33A-33F, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a partially key cut key blank of the typeshown in FIG. 32A-32D. The key blank of FIGS. 33A-33F is identical tothat of FIGS. 32A-32D and is formed with additional key cuts, eachhaving a generally truncated conical configuration, similar to that of afirst key cut, over each pair of additional grooves, thus fully definingsecond key cuts on each of planar surfaces 804 and 806. The second keycuts, which are each a combination of a pair of additional grooves andthe additional truncated conical key cut, are identified by referencenumeral 834 on planar surface 804 and by reference numeral 835 on planarsurface 806. Additional second key cuts which are each a combination ofan additional groove and an additional truncated conical key cut areidentified by reference numerals 836 on planar surface 804 and byreference numerals 837 on planar surface 806.

Key blanks configured generally as shown in FIGS. 33A-33F may havesecond key cuts located selectably at different key cut locations,thereby to define second key cut locations. It is appreciated that byselective distribution of key blanks of the type shown in FIGS. 33A-33F,having given second key cut locations, cutting of keys havingcorresponding second key cut locations may be correspondinglyrestricted. The provision of different depths of the grooves provides afacility suitable for use in mastering keys.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 34A-34F, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of a key produced from the partially key cut keyblank of the type shown in FIGS. 33A-33F. The difference between the keyof FIGS. 34A-34F and the key blank of FIGS. 33A-33F is in the additionof first key cuts at additional locations along the key cut region oneach of planar surfaces 804 and 806. The additional key cuts areindicated generally by reference numeral 844 on planar surface 804 andare not shown on planar surface 806.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 35A-35F, which are, respectively, apictorial illustration, a plan view illustration and a plurality ofsectional illustrations of the key produced from the partially key cutkey blank of the type shown in FIGS. 33A-33F in operative engagementwith plug pins of FIGS. 27A-27F. FIGS. 35A-35F illustrate engagement ofa multi-part plug pin 675 (FIGS. 27A-27F) having parts of differentlengths with second key cut 834 and engagement of a multi-part plug pin675 having parts of identical lengths with second key cut 836. It isseen that due to the provision of additional grooves in the second keycuts, which accommodate elongate protrusions 692 and 694 (FIGS. 27A-27B)the multi-part pins 675 are enabled to seat fully in the second keycuts. It is appreciated that multi-part pins 675 could not seat fully ina first key cut. Accordingly keys which do not include suitably placedsecond key cuts cannot operate the non-conventional cylinders of thetype described herein.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the presentinvention is not limited by what has been particularly shown anddescribed hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present inventionincludes both combinations and subcombinations of the various featuresdescribed hereinabove as well as variations and modifications whichwould occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the specificationand which are not in the prior art.

1. A key comprising: a shank for use with a first pin operated cylinderhaving a plurality of first pins and at least one second pin, said shankalso being for use with a second pin operated cylinder having aplurality of only first pins without said at least one second pin; saidshank defining at least one planar surface configured to define alongitudinally extending key-cut region thereon, said longitudinallyextending region having formed thereon a plurality of first key cutsconfigured to position the plurality of first pins of the first pinoperated cylinder at first-pin shear line positions when the key isfully inserted in the first pin operated cylinder, and having pre-formedthereon at least one second key cut configured to position at least onesecond pin at a second-pin shear line position when the key is fullyinserted in the first pin operated cylinder, wherein said plurality offirst key cuts define first recesses corresponding in configuration tosaid first pins, and wherein said at least one second key cut defines afirst recess portion corresponding to one of said first recesses andconfigured to position one of said first pins at one of said first-pinshear line positions when the key is fully inserted in the second pinoperated cylinder, and at least one second recess portion which is cutdeeper than said first recess portion and which is configured toposition said at least one second pin at said second-pin shear lineposition when the key is fully inserted in the first pin operatedcylinder; wherein said at least one second key cut has a shape definedby a combination of a guide groove, an additional groove and anadditional key cut having a generally truncated conical configurationformed over said additional groove, said additional key cutcorresponding to the plurality of first key cuts.
 2. A key according toclaim 1, wherein said plurality of first key cuts is incapable ofpositioning said at least one second pin at said second-pin shear lineposition.
 3. A cylinder and key combination, wherein a key is usable forfirst and second pin operated cylinders, comprising: a first pinoperated cylinder including a cylinder body, a plug rotatable withinsaid cylinder body and defining a keyway and comprising first pins andat least one second pin communicating with said keyway and beingselectably positionable by key cuts on a key fully inserted into saidkeyway for positioning said first pins and said at least one second pinat respective first-pin and second-pin shear line positions with respectto a shear line between said cylinder body and said plug to permitrotation of said plug with respect to said cylinder body; and a key foruse with said first pin operated cylinder and for use with a second pinoperated cylinder having a plurality of only first pins without said atleast one second pin, wherein said key comprises a shank defining atleast one planar surface configured to define a longitudinally extendingkey-cut region thereon, said longitudinally extending region havingformed thereon a plurality of first key cuts configured to position saidfirst pins of the first pin operated cylinder at said first-pin shearline position when the key is fully inserted in the first pin operatedcylinder, and having pre-formed thereon at least one second key cutconfigured to position said at least one second pin at said second-pinshear line position when the key is fully inserted in the first pinoperated cylinder, and wherein said plurality of first key cuts definefirst recesses corresponding in configuration to said first pins andsaid at least one second key cut defines a first recess portioncorresponding to one of said first recesses and configured to positionone of said first pins at one of said first-pin shear line positionswhen the key is fully inserted in the second pin operated cylinder, andat least one second recess portion which is cut deeper than said firstrecess portion and which is configured to position said at least onesecond pin at said second-pin shear line position when the key is fullyinserted in the first pin operated cylinder; wherein said at least onesecond key cut has a shape defined by a combination of a guide groove,an additional groove and an additional key cut having a generallytruncated conical configuration formed over said additional groove, saidadditional key cut corresponding to the plurality of first key cuts. 4.A cylinder and key combination according to claim 3 and wherein saidplurality of first key cuts is incapable of positioning said at leastone second pin at said second-pin shear line position.
 5. A cylinder andkey combination according to claim 3 and wherein said at least onesecond pin comprises a multi-part pin.
 6. A cylinder and key combinationaccording to claim 3, wherein said at least one second pin of said plughas a generally oval cylindrical configuration, and said first pins ofsaid plug have a generally circular cylindrical configuration.
 7. Acylinder and key combination according to claim 3, wherein said at leastone second pin of said plug has a generally symmetric oval headconfiguration, and said first pins of said plug have a generallycircularly symmetric, conical pin head configuration.
 8. A cylinder andkey combination, wherein a key is usable for first and second pinoperated cylinders, comprising: a first pin operated cylinder includinga cylinder body, a plug rotatable within said cylinder body and defininga keyway and comprising first pins and at least one second pincommunicating with said keyway and being selectably positionable by keycuts on a key fully inserted into said keyway for positioning said firstpins and said at least one second pin at respective first-pin andsecond-pin shear line positions with respect to a shear line betweensaid cylinder body and said plug to permit rotation of said plug withrespect to said cylinder body; and a key for use with said first pinoperated cylinder and for use with a second pin operated cylinder havinga plurality of only first pins without said at least one second pin,wherein said key comprises a shank defining at least one planar surfaceconfigured to define a longitudinally extending key-cut region thereon,said longitudinally extending region having formed thereon a pluralityof first key cuts configured to position said first pins of the firstpin operated cylinder at said first-pin shear line position when the keyis fully inserted in the first pin operated cylinder, and havingpre-formed thereon at least one second key cut configured to positionsaid at least one second pin at said second-pin shear line position whenthe key is fully inserted in the first pin operated cylinder, andwherein said plurality of first key cuts define first recessescorresponding in configuration to said first pins and said at least onesecond key cut defines a first recess portion corresponding to one ofsaid first recesses and configured to position one of said first pins atone of said first-pin shear line positions when the key is fullyinserted in the second pin operated cylinder, and at least one secondrecess portion which is cut deeper than said first recess portion andwhich is configured to position said at least one second pin at saidsecond-pin shear line position when the key is fully inserted in thefirst pin operated cylinder, wherein said at least one second pin has agenerally oval cylindrical configuration, a head of said at least onesecond pin defining an elongate protrusion which extends along an axisand an inclined plane extending downwardly from each side of saidelongate protrusion, a first conical surface extending downwardly fromone end of said elongate protrusion which joins a second conicalsurface, and another elongate protrusion that extends on either side ofsaid second conical surface.
 9. A cylinder and key combination, whereina key is usable for first and second pin operated cylinders, comprising:a first pin operated cylinder including a cylinder body, a plugrotatable within said cylinder body and defining a keyway and comprisingfirst pins and at least one second pin communicating with said keywayand being selectably positionable by key cuts on a key fully insertedinto said keyway for positioning said first pins and said at least onesecond pin at respective first-pin and second-pin shear line positionswith respect to a shear line between said cylinder body and said plug topermit rotation of said plug with respect to said cylinder body; and akey for use with said first pin operated cylinder and for use with asecond pin operated cylinder having a plurality of only first pinswithout said at least one second pin, wherein said key comprises a shankdefining at least one planar surface configured to define alongitudinally extending key-cut region thereon, said longitudinallyextending region having formed thereon a plurality of first key cutsconfigured to position said first pins of the first pin operatedcylinder at said first-pin shear line position when the key is fullyinserted in the first pin operated cylinder, and having pre-formedthereon at least one second key cut configured to position said at leastone second pin at said second-pin shear line position when the key isfully inserted in the first pin operated cylinder, and wherein saidplurality of first key cuts define first recesses corresponding inconfiguration to said first pins and said at least one second key cutdefines a first recess portion corresponding to one of said firstrecesses and configured to position one of said first pins at one ofsaid first-pin shear line positions when the key is fully inserted inthe second pin operated cylinder, and at least one second recess portionwhich is cut deeper than said first recess portion and which isconfigured to position said at least one second pin at said second-pinshear line position when the key is fully inserted in the first pinoperated cylinder, wherein said at least one second pin has a generallyoval cylindrical configuration defining a major axis and a minor axis, ahead of said at least one second pin defining an elongate generallyrectangular protrusion which extends along the minor axis and aninclined plane extending downwardly from each side of said elongateprotrusion, a first conical surface extending downwardly from one end ofsaid elongate protrusion which joins a second conical surface, andanother elongate protrusion that extends on either side of said secondconical surface.